Orioles Get Saunders for Lindstrom

August 26, 2012

AP Photo

The Orioles had their focus on Joe Saunders since he was on the free-agent market this offseason, and the club had been discussing the possibility of acquiring the left-hander in a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the past few weeks. Orioles executive vice president Dan Duquette — always eager to add pitching depth — coveted Saunders’ experience and the prospect of him helping the Orioles against some of the American League’s lefty-laden lineups.

On Sunday, the Orioles acquired the 31-year-old Saunders, along with cash considerations, for right-handed reliever Matt Lindstrom and a player to be named after the season. Right-hander Jake Arrieta was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk to fill Lindstrom’s bullpen role.

The acquisition of Saunders adds a veteran left-handed arm and bolsters the Orioles’ pitching depth. The ...